1997 Dodge Ram - The Electric Grape Express

We all have our ideas about what makes a machine stand out, but rarely do we get an eyeful of the graphic overkill that Mark Wehri built into his '97 Dodge Ram. Let's face it, using Martin Seymour Plum Crazy paint and a set of AAR graphics from the '70 Plymouth 'Cuda will get your attention, even if you're a die-hard musclecar devotee.

Of course, the Ram didn't start out looking like this, and Mark, who is from Ft. Jennings, Ohio, got it after a previous owner had "redetailed" the factory sheet metal via an immovable object. So, the first stop was Buckeye Paint and Coatings for some needed body massaging. An AAR-type hood from ProFinish ended up over the engine bay, and 'Cuda hoodscoops were grafted to the doors for a new appearance. A fiberglass step-side bed went on the chassis behind the cab, and a 2000 Sport Ram bumper with driving lights is now on the nose. This modification program has been ongoing since the truck was first purchased four years ago.

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Meanwhile, inside the cockpit is the factory carpeting and 60/40 split bench seat done in a conservative gray flavor. An Infinity stereo is part of the creature comfort updates. Same story under the hood: A stock 360 Magnum has been upgraded only slightly, this through the use of a set of vertical exhaust stacks that exit through the steps of the step-side bed. The engine is backed by the factory's truck automatic, sending cruise power to all four wheels via a pair of 9 1/4-inch diferentials sporting 3.55 Sure Grip centers. Mark showed he had no problem getting on it when he blistered the 265-75-16 rubber at the Mopar Nationals last summer.

By the way, he finished the "Little Purple Express" that Thursday night, just before the Nats began! Nothing like cutting it a little close, eh, pal? Seriously, he gives credit to the friends and family who aided him with helping hands, ideas, and even consumption of the requisite beverage of choice during the long nights and weekends. The result when those tires spin is pure Hendrix adrenaline-purple haze, indeed.